Q: I recently read about a sugar additive being linked to the rise of a killer bug. What is this additive, how do I avoid it, and how serious is the threat?A: Clostridium difficile, or C. diff, is a … more

The roar of a jet plane, the rumble of a big rig, that shrill scream from the siren of a speeding emergency vehicle:The common but loud noises that keep you awake at night and agitate you throughout … more

The standard prescription for flu is to stay home and rest, drink plenty of fluids, and keep pain and fever under control with over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen.But this flu season has been a … more

From the mailbox: - We always learn from your letters, and this time it's food scientist Bob Hutkins from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who helped out. Writing about the finer points of kefir … more

CHICAGO — There's an extra bonus to marriage for melanoma patients: They tend to be diagnosed in earlier more treatable stages than patients who are unmarried, widowed or divorced, a new study … more

Federal officials have recommended a new vaccine that is more effective than an earlier version at protecting older adults against the painful rash called shingles. But persuading many adults to get … more

SEATTLE — Take two tablets and a selfie? Your doctor's orders may one day include a smartphone video to make sure you took your medicine.Smartphone apps that monitor pill-taking are now … more

Q: I take medication daily for hypothyroidism and borderline high blood pressure. My question is: Do I benefit from iodide in table salt or should I buy plain salt for cooking? A: Your question … more

There is nothing quite as devastating for many older people as having to leave the comfort of home because of poor health or limited mobility.But a new generation of services and technology is making … more

It's another one of those silent, but deadly diseases that's readily detectable and ultimately manageable with better self-care and communication between doctors and their patients.Chronic kidney … more